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Winter Weather

NOTE: The University of Kansas Medical Center launched an intranet on June 20, 2016, to provide easier access to information and tools used by our faculty and staff. Valid KU Medical Center network credentials are required to access the intranet.

Many of the forms and procedures for Emergency Management have been relocated to the intranet. If you are affiliated with another institution and are interested in collaborating or learning more about our procedures, please contact University Emergency Management at uem@kumc.edu.


A major winter storm can last for several days and can be accompanied by high winds, freezing rain, sleet, heavy snowfall, and extreme cold temperatures. Winter storms and extreme cold affects all areas of the country with the ability to knock out heat, power, and communication services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time. Hypothermia and frostbite can lead to the loss of fingers and toes, can cause permanent damage to internal organs, or may even cause death. Careful preparations can help you avoid these dangers!

What to do during a winter storm:

  • Before any winter storm hits, you should have a winter emergency kit containing items you may need to sustain during winter weather. 

  • Stay indoors during the storm. If you must go out, ensure you walk and drive carefully. If you are driving, make a winter emergency kit for your car!

  • Keep dry. mittens

  • Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

  • Know how you get notified of University late starts or cancellations.
  • Check out this site more winter tips on shoveling, winter driving and how KUMC manages snow removal!

Division of Public Safety

University of Kansas Medical Center
Emergency Management
Mailstop 1001
2100 West 36 Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66160